How Does a Podiatrist Assess Vascular Disease?
Podiatrists play a pivotal role in assessing vascular disease, a condition that impacts blood circulation throughout the body, including the lower extremities. A thorough examination begins with a detailed medical history, as podiatrists inquire about symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or numbness. Clinical assessment involves inspecting skin color, temperature, and the presence of wounds or ulcers on the feet, key indicators of compromised blood flow. Podiatrists employ palpation techniques to evaluate pulses in the feet, gauging the strength and regularity of blood flow. The capillary refill test assesses the time it takes for color to return to the toenails after gentle pressure, providing insights into microcirculation. In cases of suspected vascular disease, podiatrists may collaborate with vascular specialists for more advanced diagnostic tests such as Doppler ultrasound or angiography. If you have poor circulation, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat vascular disease.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Vascular Testing in Podiatry
In foot care, vascular testing may be required in the diagnosing and treatment of certain podiatric conditions. Vascular testing is particularly relevant for patients with high-risk diabetes, poor circulation, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Procedures typically involve the examination of blood vessels throughout the body for blockages or buildup.
Vascular testing is very important for the diagnosis of various conditions, including peripheral artery disease and chronic venous insufficiency, as these conditions can greatly affect one’s quality of life and cause pain in the lower limbs. Circulatory problems in the feet and ankles can reflect issues throughout the body, making testing of the blood vessels pertinent.
Testing methods vary between practitioners and can be specific to certain foot and ankle problems. Modern technology has brought about the ability to perform vascular testing using non-invasive methods, such as the cuff-based PADnet testing device. This device records the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)/Toe-Brachial Index (TBI) values and Pulse Volume Recording (PVR) waveforms. Contact your podiatrist to determine what vascular testing is available for your needs.
Difference Between Sprains and Strains
When it comes to foot and ankle injuries, understanding the distinction between a sprain and a strain is important for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Both share similarities in symptoms, but they affect different parts of the body. A sprain involves the ligaments, which are tough bands connecting bones to joints. This type of injury occurs when a joint is forcefully pushed beyond its normal range of motion. It often leads to pain, swelling, and bruising. However, a strain pertains to an overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons. The muscles, responsible for movement, can be strained through overuse or abrupt exertion. In the realm of podiatry, ligaments around the ankle are more often affected by sprains. When injured, these ligaments cause inflammation, swelling, and bruising, making joint movement painful. Identifying whether an injury is a sprain or a strain is essential for tailored treatment plans. While both injuries cause pain and discomfort, distinguishing between the two ensures proper care. If you suspect a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough examination, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan.
Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Muscle strains
- Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
- Stress fractures
Symptoms
Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:
- Bruising
- Inflammation/ Swelling
- Pain
Diagnosis
To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.
Treatment
Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot and Ankle Fractures
When the foot or ankle experiences trauma, a fracture may occur. Causes of foot and ankle fractures can vary; in some cases, an obvious impact to the foot or a fall can be behind a fracture. Alternatively, fractures can also occur because of increased stress on the bone over time. The location of the fracture can often give your podiatrist information on how the fracture occurred.
Pain, especially when bearing weight, is a telltale sign of a fracture. Limping due to this pain is a further sign of a foot or ankle fracture. Other symptoms include inflammation, bruising, deformity, and tenderness. A deformity may occur due to a shift in bone alignment or a joint dislocation near the fracture. While pain is a significant symptom of breakage, a patient who has nerve damage or who has diabetes may not feel this pain. In this instance, your podiatrist will look for additional signs to determine whether a fracture has occurred.
If you are experiencing severe pain, cannot walk without limping, have an open wound near the suspected break, or have numbness or tingling in the toes, you should see your podiatrist.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel and arch pain, arises from repeated micro-tears in the plantar fascia fibers, primarily at the point where the fascia connects to the heel bone. Stretching exercises are a vital treatment for plantar fasciitis. These exercises should focus on both the calf and the plantar fascia to yield maximum effectiveness, as tight calf muscles are a frequent cause of plantar fasciitis. Strengthening exercises that target intrinsic foot muscles and the calf muscles offer significant relief by stabilizing and supporting the foot and heel. Shoe inserts, such as gel heel pads or orthotics, are another simple, yet effective treatment. These aids vary from basic heel pads or cups that offer cushioning for the heel to custom-made orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist that correct abnormal foot positions, such as fallen arches. They reduce tension on the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia, providing much-needed comfort. Choosing the right footwear is an important way to manage plantar fasciitis. Opt for shoes that provide excellent cushioning and support, especially for the medial arch of the foot. Wearing shoes throughout the day, rather than walking barefoot, ensures continuous support and cushioning for the feet. If you are experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can safely guide your treatment and recovery.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a connective tissue in the heel that stretches across the bottom length of your foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the connective tissue becomes inflamed, causing heel pain and discomfort during physical activity. Although the condition is completely treatable, traditional methods can take up to a year to start becoming effective.
Plantar fasciitis is caused by a number of everyday activities, so understanding the condition is important for managing and treating it. One of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis is excessive running, especially with improper fitting or non-supportive shoes. Too much exercise can lead to the plantar fascia being overworked and overstretched, which can cause tears in the tissue. Along with improper fitting shoes, pronation, the rolling of the feet inward, is a common cause of plantar fasciitis. If not treated properly, the plantar fascia becomes overstretched and starts to tear, causing inflammation.
Despite the common causes of plantar fasciitis, there are many different treatment options. For less severe cases, conservative home remedies include taking anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain, applying ice packs to the bottom of your foot and heel, slowly stretching and exercising your feet to re-strengthen the tissue, and using orthotic devices are all ways to help manage your plantar fasciitis.
For more severe cases, shockwave therapy has become a common solution for plantar fasciitis. Shockwave therapy can effectively break up the tissue on the bottom of your foot which facilitates healing and regeneration. This fights the chronic pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Even if this doesn’t work, surgery is always a final option. Surgery on the tissue itself can be done to permanently correct the issue and stop the inflammation and pain in your heels.
No matter what the case may be, consulting your podiatrist is the first and best step to recovery. Even the slightest amount of heel pain could be the first stage of plantar fasciitis. Untreated symptoms can lead to the tearing and overstretching of tissue. Because the tearing of tissue can be compounded if it remains ignored, it can evolve into a severe case. The solution is early detection and early treatment. Talk to your podiatrist about the possibilities of plantar fasciitis if you’re experiencing heel pain.
Morton’s Toe Can Cause Pain
Morton's toe is characterized by the second toe appearing to be longer than the big toe. It is a prevalent foot structure that affects weight distribution and occasionally causes discomfort. Morton’s toe is a hereditary trait that has also been associated with potential advantages in athletics, as many professional athletes exhibit Morton's toe. Morton's toe is not actually caused by the second toe itself. In fact, its root lies in the metatarsals. When the first metatarsal is shorter, it makes the second toe seem longer. This condition leads to uneven weight distribution across the other bones of the feet. Over time, Morton’s toe may result in aches and pains, primarily felt at the base of the first two metatarsal bones and at the head of the second metatarsal. Fortunately, conservative treatments, such as padding, specific exercises, medication, and wearing custom orthotics can effectively manage the associated pain. For cases where conservative measures fall short, surgical options that call for removing certain toe joints are available. Seeking early intervention and consulting with a podiatrist can guide individuals with Morton's toe toward an appropriate and personalized course of action to maintain foot health and overall well being. For more information on Morton’s toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry
Biomechanics and its related study deal with the forces that act against the body and affect things like our movement. In podiatry, biomechanics are studied to determine the movement of the ankle, toes, and the foot, as well as the forces that impact them. Podiatrists who train in this specialty are able to effectively diagnose and treat conditions that affect people’s everyday movement.
Regardless of your lifestyle, age, or any other factors, many people experience foot problems throughout their lives. Twists and turns, improper balance, and added weight are just a few of the things that can add stress to the feet. These issues can also limit our bodies’ mobility that we often take for granted. Pain in the feet and ankles can also trickle up towards the lower legs, knees, hip, and even back area. This affects the way you move around on a daily basis.
Biomechanics and its related study deal with forces that act against the body and affect things like our movement. In podiatry, biomechanics are studied to determine the movement of the ankle, toes, and the foot, as well as the forces that impact them. Podiatrists who train in this specialty are able to effectively diagnose and treat conditions that affect people’s everyday movement.
Regardless of your lifestyle, age, or any other factors, many people experience foot problems throughout their lives. Twists and turns, improper balance, and added weight are just a few of the things that can add stress to the feet. These issues can also limit our bodies’ mobility that we often take for granted. Pain in the feet and ankles can also trickle up towards the lower legs, knees, hip, and even back area. This affects the way you move around on a daily basis.
The history of studying biomechanics dates back to ancient Egypt at around 3000 B.C., where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded. Throughout the centuries, advances in technology, science, and an understanding of the human body led to more accurate diagnosis of conditions such as corns for example. In 1974, biomechanics garnered a large audience when Merton Root founded Root Lab to make custom orthotics. He proposed that corrections of certain conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area. Due to his research, we still use his basic principle of foot orthotics to this day.
As technology has improved, so have the therapeutic processes that allow us to correct deficiencies in our natural biomechanics. Computers can now provide accurate readings of the forces, movements, and patterns of the foot and lower leg. Critical treatment options can be provided to patients now who suffer from problems that cause their biomechanics to not function naturally. The best results are now possible thanks to 3D modeling and computing technologies that can take readings and also map out what treatment will do to the affected areas.
These advanced corrective methods were able to come to light thanks to an increase in both the technologies surrounding biomechanics and also the knowledge of how they work naturally. For example, shoe orthotics are able to treat walking inabilities by realigning the posture deviations in patients caused by hip or back problems. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve movement and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot. Speak with your podiatrist if you have any of these problems.
Definition and Risk Factors of Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints. It typically affects the joint at the base of the big toe, but other joints can also be involved. Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the affected joint, which leads to inflammation and excruciating pain. While gout can affect anyone, it predominantly targets men, especially those over the age of 30. Women become more susceptible after menopause. Individuals with a family history of gout are at a higher risk, as genetics can play a significant role. Lifestyle factors such as a diet rich in purine-containing foods that include red meat, seafood, and alcohol, may significantly contribute to developing gout. Additionally, obesity and high blood pressure also increase the likelihood of getting gout. Understanding the definition and risk factors of gout is vital for timely diagnosis and effective management. If you have gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, in addition to offering you effective prevention strategies.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
